Interactive: The secret to hotel room design is part art, part science

The final Hotel Designs roundtable of 2023, sponsored by Kohler, brought together leading interior designers to discuss the evolving landscape of bathroom design within the hospitality sector. The discussion centered on integrating bathrooms and bedrooms in hotel settings, exploring current trends, challenges, and future innovations. The expert panel included Corinna Galdies of G.A Group, Tom Thorogood of Studio Moren, Dimos Giorgou of Tara Bernard & Partners, Fiona Thompson of Richmond International, Sophie Borel of Cheval Collection, Mark Henderson of YOTEL, Henning Schmidt of Six Senses Hotels, Resorts & Spas, and Kevin Miles of Kohler. One of the primary topics addressed was the merging of bathroom and bedroom spaces while maintaining practicality and guest experience. Henning Schmidt highlighted the need for merging elements in luxury properties, often using consistent surface materials to create a shared design language, though preferring separation for privacy. Dimos Giorgou pointed out that location, building type, and overall design scheme significantly influence the approach, with urban hotels often requiring more privacy than resort-style properties. Glass and sliding doors are increasingly used to open up spaces while still offering the option for seclusion. Tom Thorogood noted the growing trend towards open-concept bathrooms in lifestyle and resort hotels, emphasizing that dynamic elements like moving screens or obscured glazing can provide necessary privacy without sacrificing an airy feel. He stressed the importance of seamless design transitions, including consistent flooring, color palettes, and artwork, to create a harmonious and luxurious guest experience, especially in hotels with limited space like a new project in Tokyo. Sophie Borel added that designers face challenges with shrinking spaces and diverse demographic needs, noting that guest expectations for bathrooms vary significantly across different regions, such as the Middle East versus Europe. The conversation also touched upon enhancing bathrooms in budget-conscious brands like YOTEL. Mark Henderson explained that guests, increasingly knowledgeable about design and construction from social media, expect quality products even in more affordable hotels. He emphasized the importance of getting the basics right and selecting durable, quality brands, particularly for operational longevity. Fiona Thompson reiterated this point, highlighting that the bathroom is the most expensive and least frequently renovated part of a guestroom, necessitating careful consideration of materials and fittings that will endure for two decades or more. The role of technology in bathroom design was another significant point of discussion. Sophie Borel expressed concerns about technology's rapid evolution contrasting with the need for long-lasting design schemes, suggesting that advanced tech might be better suited for larger suites as a differentiator. Corinna Galdies confirmed this, noting that tech showers are often reserved for suites, and some projects prioritize technology-driven experiences while others focus on traditional bathing rituals. Tom Thorogood observed that the sophistication of bedroom technology is extending into bathrooms, with features like digital shower controls and integrated speakers enhancing functionality and guest experience. Mark Henderson clarified that while YOTEL utilizes technology for efficiency, such as air quality control and BMS systems, they avoid incorporating tech for its own sake, prioritizing simplicity and functionality. Kevin Miles of Kohler addressed designers' concerns about integrating technology, explaining that digital showers, which Kohler has developed for years, are now expected by guests who use them at home. He highlighted the user-friendly interface, haptic response, and iconography of Kohler's smart showers, as well as their sustainability features that track water usage. He also pointed out the customization options that make smart showers appealing to brands. Fiona Thompson expressed a pragmatic view, supporting technology only when it genuinely enhances the design and experience, while acknowledging the importance of sustainability. Tom Thorogood raised a pertinent question about the longevity of digital showers compared to analog fittings, suggesting that while software can be updated, the hardware might age faster than traditional, durable fixtures, underscoring the ongoing challenge of balancing innovation with timeless design in hotel bathrooms. #HotelDesign #BathroomDesign #InteriorDesign #HospitalityTrends #LuxuryHotels #TechnologicalIntegration #GuestExperience #SustainableDesign

This interview features Jason Holley and Paul Gulati of London-based Universal Design Studio, known for their bespoke approach to design that prioritizes user experience and sensibility over fleeting styles. Both designers recall early inclinations towards creation; Holley's interest in architecture emerged from a desire to make things, while Gulati's obsession with drawing led him to understand design as a practical endeavor. Holley recounts a childhood anecdote where he convinced his grandfather to tear down a built-in wardrobe to create a more effective bedroom space, much to his parents' dismay. Gulati remembers drawing on old engineering prints, which instilled in him an understanding of design's functional purpose. Holley pursued architecture at Kingston University and Westminster University, drawn to their experimental approaches and interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly under the influence of David Greene of Archigram. Gulati's university studies transformed his perception of space and the built environment. When discussing how they imbue projects with distinctiveness while maintaining their signature, Holley emphasizes understanding social implications and defining experiences that respond to user needs, aiming to uplift spirits. This process, he explains, creates a unique voice for each project that reflects their signature approach. Gulati highlights the importance of embedding hotels within their local creative communities. They cite challenging projects they are particularly proud of. For Holley, the At Six Hotel in Stockholm presented the challenge of integrating a world-class art collection into a luxury hotel within a Brutalist building in a lesser-known area, ultimately succeeding in creating a social space centered on engagement and storytelling. Gulati points to the Ace Hotel in Shoreditch as a rewarding project, their first hotel, which demanded success due to its proximity and the desire to create layered, convivial, and informal spaces. The intention was to deeply integrate the hotel into the local creative community, yielding results that exceeded their expectations. Looking ahead, Holley is enthusiastic about their newly established New York studio, viewing it as a natural progression given their existing projects in the city and the strong collaborative spirit they appreciate there. Both designers share inspirations beyond their immediate field. Holley admires the Dutch artist Constant Nieuwenhuys's architectural project, New Babylon, which explored a future city model that put people at the center of their environments, allowing them to design their own spaces and selves. Gulati continues to be inspired by the work of Alvar Aalto. Their dream projects reflect these inspirations; Holley dreams of realizing New Babylon, while Gulati envisions planning and designing a new city or sector as part of a wider team. He believes collaboration and applying human-centered design principles on a larger, city scale are crucial for promoting wellbeing and democratizing knowledge. When asked about dinner companions, Holley chooses novelist J.G. Ballard, expecting conversations on psychology, time, and technological fetishism. Gulati would choose his late father to share updates and stories. They would dine at Odette in Singapore, a Universal Design Studio project, or an Ottolenghi restaurant in London, respectively. If not designers, Holley would run a bakery specializing in one perfected type of bread, while Gulati would create soundtracks for films or spaces, drawing on his electronic music background. #UniversalDesignStudio #HospitalityDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHotels #CreativeProcess #DesignPhilosophy #UserExperience #HotelDesign

The article presents a curated selection of nine hotel bedrooms from various global locations, highlighting their distinctive design elements and unique guest experiences. It emphasizes the allure of hotel rooms as spaces for relaxation and escape from daily routines, a perspective that guides the selection of each establishment. The featured hotels are chosen for their ability to blend local culture, historical context, and contemporary design to create memorable and inspiring interiors. The first hotel, Palazzo Daniele in Puglia, Italy, exemplifies a fusion of 19th-century Italian neoclassicism with modern minimalism. Its ten suites showcase original frescoes and mosaic floors complemented by contemporary furnishings, creating an atmosphere of low-key charm that extends to its location in Gagliano del Capo and its locally-sourced cuisine. Patina in the Maldives offers a tranquil and pared-down luxury experience, with bedrooms featuring earth tones, smooth lines, and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that provide direct views of the ocean. Many villas include private landscaped gardens and pools, enhancing the connection to the natural surroundings. The Fife Arms in Scotland, located within the Cairngorms National Park, boasts 46 individually designed rooms and suites. These rooms are rich in color and personality, with themes ranging from royal history to Scottish culture and nature-inspired poetry. The interiors, masterminded by Russell Sage Studio, combine characterful design with British eccentricity and local Scottish artistry. Chateau de Rosa Bonheur in Ile-de-France, France, offers guests the opportunity to stay in the former residence and studio of 19th-century French painter Rosa Bonheur. The chateau has been meticulously restored, blending historical grandeur with modern comforts, providing a unique experience for art and design enthusiasts within a picturesque setting. In Kolkata, India, the Glenburn Penthouse features nine suites with dramatic solid-wood four-poster beds, polished parquet floors, and elegant arched windows. The design incorporates eclectic fabrics and marble-accented bathrooms, with an infinity pool on the terrace offering views of the Kolkata skyline. Life House in Little Havana, Miami, USA, occupies a historic 1920s building that has been refurbished to reflect the diverse cultures of its neighborhood. The hotel's interiors are an explosion of patterns and colors, incorporating local art and ceramics, while its dining options provide an elevated take on Latin American street food. Arijiju Safari Lodge in the Kenyan highlands provides a unique safari experience with an unobtrusive, leveled architectural structure that blends into the natural landscape. The interiors, designed by Maira Koutsoudakis, combine modern minimalism with touches of colonial style. Suites and cottages feature freestanding copper baths and arched windows, offering secluded views of the equatorial environment. Cuixmala in Mexico, a former private residence of billionaire James Goldsmith, has been transformed into a high-end hotel within a vast estate. The accommodations, including suites, bungalows, villas, and casitas, are characterized by bright white walls contrasted with bold, colorful soft furnishings and artwork, emphasizing space, height, and light. Finally, Hotel Particulier Montmartre in Paris, France, is a hidden five-suite hotel known for its intimate setting and refreshed interiors by Pierre Lacroix. The suites, such as the "Lazy Leopardess" and "Grand Tralala," feature distinctive wallpapers and velvet accents, creating a stylish and irreverent atmosphere. #HotelDesign #BedroomInspiration #LuxuryTravel #InteriorDesign #GlobalHotels #ArchitecturalStyle #BoutiqueHotels #CulturalImmersion #ModernBedrooms

The article showcases 17 of the most luxurious hotel bathrooms globally, highlighting their unique design elements and amenities that elevate them beyond mere functional spaces into private sanctuaries. These bathrooms are presented as a significant status symbol for high-end hotels, offering spa-like experiences, cutting-edge design, and breathtaking views. Among the featured hotels, The Chedi Andermatt in Switzerland offers a private spa experience within its Furka Suite, equipped with a hot tub, steam room, and sauna, making extended bathroom stays a natural part of the guest experience. The Silo Hotel in Cape Town emphasizes its prime location with window-adjacent tubs that offer expansive views, complemented by Tiffany-blue cabinetry and black-and-white striped floors. Virgin Hotels New Orleans embraces a flamboyant design aesthetic, with its Richard's Penthouse Suite featuring a bright aqua-green bathroom adorned with mahogany walls, velvet ottomans, and a distinctive marble floor. For an unparalleled underwater experience, the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island's Muraka suite includes a bedroom and bathroom situated 16 feet underwater, providing 360-degree ocean views during a relaxing bath or sleep. VIK Chile, surrounded by vineyards, offers window-lined bathrooms in its Vik Suite, featuring a hammock-shaped tub designed by Splinterworks Studio with foam insulation for extended warmth, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the scenic views. Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris, designed by Philippe Starck, boasts industrial-chic bathrooms entirely covered in mirrors, providing a trippy yet sophisticated ambiance across all room types. Aman Tokyo exemplifies sleek minimalism with its Aman Suites' all-slate bathrooms, which serve as a tranquil backdrop to panoramic Tokyo skyline views, complemented by stone furo soaking tubs. The Conservatorium Hotel in Amsterdam, housed in a 19th-century bank, integrates original wood beams into its I Love Amsterdam suite bathroom, offering a cavernous bathtub with views of the Rijksmuseum. El Fenn in Marrakech features 42 uniquely colored rooms and suites, each with deep soaking tubs and contemporary art, creating an artistic and comfortable atmosphere. Lion Sands Game Reserve in South Africa provides an extraordinary experience with its Kingston Treehouse, offering an open-air bedroom and a glassed-in bathroom with a rain shower and double vanity, perfect for stargazing. The 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge emphasizes integrating nature, with its Riverhouse Suite offering a granite bathtub overlooking the East River and Manhattan skyline, alongside triple-filtered rain showers and organic bath products. Nay Palad Hideaway in the Philippines introduces unique open-concept rain showers in its deluxe villas, where water cascades onto a bamboo mat surrounded by gravel, complemented by organic bath products and aromatherapy. Ponta dos Ganchos in Brazil presents the Especial Esmeralda suite, which includes a private spa-like bathroom with a hot tub, en suite sauna, sun loungers, and an attached deck with an infinity pool. Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla offers Kelly Wearstler-designed suites, with its four-bedroom Beachfront Villas featuring spa-like bathrooms with private terraces and outdoor showers. Shangri-La Hotel, Paris, within the former apartments of Prince Roland Bonaparte, showcases bathrooms decorated in the opulent 18th-century Directoire style, finished in marble with crystal fixtures. Finally, Shou Sugi Ban House in Water Mill, New York, provides a wellness retreat experience with Japanese bath products and wooden soak tubs, inviting guests to spend leisurely hours in its zen-inspired bathrooms. #LuxuryHotels #HotelDesign #BathroomDesign #SpaExperience #TravelInspiration #GlobalTravel #InteriorDesign #UniqueAccommodations #Architecture

The article explores a growing trend in hotel design where bathrooms lack proper privacy, featuring transparent doors, frosted glass partitions that don't reach the floor, or even entirely open layouts. This design choice, often encountered in modern hotels, has led to discomfort and frustration among travelers, particularly when sharing a room with friends or family. The author recounts a personal experience in Punta Cana and highlights a social media movement, "Bring Back Bathroom Doors," initiated by Sadie Lowell, to raise awareness and provide resources for travelers seeking hotels with adequate bathroom privacy. Lowell's TikTok page, with over 36,000 likes, and her website, BringBackDoors.com, list hotels based on submitted guest experiences, categorizing them by their bathroom privacy standards. Several interior designers with experience in hotel projects shed light on the motivations behind this shift in design. Jaque Bethke, with four decades in hospitality design, attributes the trend, in part, to reduced construction and renovation budgets post-2008 market crash and the COVID-19 pandemic. She notes that today's budgets are leaner, impacting the quality and long-term design investments. Jon de la Cruz observes this issue more frequently in Europe, where rooms tend to be smaller and design standards differ, often lacking the clear separation of wet and dry areas and dedicated toilet enclosures that Americans typically expect. The designers identify several reasons for hotels prioritizing designs that compromise bathroom privacy: practicality, aesthetics, convenience, and cost-saving. From a practical standpoint, glass or barn-style doors are space-efficient, particularly in smaller rooms, as they avoid the large footprint of outward-swinging doors. Aesthetically, glass doors can make a bathroom feel brighter and larger, especially in historic buildings where adding natural light or extensive ventilation is challenging. These modern designs also tend to photograph well, aiding marketing efforts. Convenience plays a role as well, as sliding barn doors and glass doors are easier to standardize across numerous identical rooms, simplifying the construction process and reducing the need for precise doorway measurements. Financially, Bethke suggests that reduced budgets lead designers to use materials like glass as visual statements because they are relatively inexpensive and create the illusion of intentional, modern design. Lowell, through her "Bring Back Doors" campaign, argues that hotels are intentionally testing guests' willingness to sacrifice privacy, akin to how airlines have reduced space without lowering prices. She posits that by making shared bathroom experiences uncomfortable, hotels might encourage guests to book separate rooms, thus increasing revenue. Ultimately, the article concludes that as more travelers become aware of and actively avoid hotels lacking proper bathroom privacy, the hotel industry will be compelled to reconsider its design choices to prevent financial losses. For those seeking hotels with good bathroom privacy, the designers offer recommendations. Sarah Stacey points to The Menagerie in Fredericksburg, Texas, a hotel she designed, where every bathroom features a standard locked door. Jon de la Cruz recommends The Hotel de Russie in Rome for its separate toilets and bidets, while Jaque Bethke highlights Kimpton properties in Los Angeles and North Carolina as examples of thoughtful design on a smaller budget. Lowell's website also serves as a continuously updated resource for travelers to find privacy-conscious accommodations and to contribute their own hotel experiences to the movement. #HotelDesign #BathroomPrivacy #TravelExperience #InteriorDesign #HospitalityIndustry #DesignTrends #CostSavingMeasures #GuestSatisfaction #ConsumerAdvocacy

The 21c Museum Hotels chain, known for its integration of contemporary art into hospitality, has expanded its portfolio with a new 297-room, 16-story high-rise in downtown Chicago. This project marks another collaboration with Interior Design Hall of Fame member Deborah Berke and her firm, Deborah Berke Partners, who have designed all nine of 21c’s properties. While many of 21c’s locations are adaptive re-use projects, the Chicago site, originally a 1927 brick structure, was already a hotel named The James. Deborah Berke Partners had previously designed the interiors for The James in 2006, giving them a distinct advantage in reimagining the space for 21c over a decade later. Berke's approach for the 21c Museum Hotel Chicago focused on creating a sense of welcoming comfort, particularly in the guest rooms, which were transformed from small spaces with kitchenettes into sitting and working areas. The design prioritized good lighting and amenities expected in a hotel room, contrasting with the cutting-edge and provocative art featured throughout the property. A key design element carried over from the previous iteration was the installation of large street-level windows, which Deborah Berke notes effectively connects the interior art with the vibrant street life of Chicago, a departure from traditional museum layouts. Central to the renovation was articulating the brand's art-driven concept, with a significant emphasis on the gallery spaces and the overall contemporary art experience. DBP partner Terrence Schroeder highlighted the 'heavy lifting' involved in the public areas and improving flow. The team commenced by establishing a double-height lobby and relocating the main staircase. These interventions were critical in opening up the arrival space and creating an engaging visual path from the street deep into the hotel. This was a complex undertaking due to the building's eccentric column grid, necessitating careful structural work to thread the new staircase through. The new, partly open staircase features solid balustrades clad in honey-colored resin panels, strategically lit with LED strips to give the angular form an alluring glow, making it almost a sculptural art piece in itself. The hotel dedicates approximately 10,000 square feet across its first and second floors to showcasing 21c's impressive contemporary art collection. This includes a hyper-realistic life-size sculpture by THE KID, a towering white-resin figure by Maimouna Guerresi, a ghostly American flag made of sheer black chiffon by Stephanie Syjuco, and various paintings, photographs, videos, and installations. Berke ensured these artworks are presented in a museum-quality setting, utilizing flexible, surface-mounted track lighting with white canisters for optimal illumination. Display areas are predominantly all-white with minimal furnishings, such as simple white-oak benches, to maintain focus on the art and allow for unobstructed viewing. In contrast to the art-focused public areas, guest room hallways are painted in darker hues to signify their more private nature. The rooms and suites themselves are designed to be light and airy, employing a calm, cool color palette inspired by the Midwestern skies and Lake Michigan. The long-standing relationship between Deborah Berke Partners and 21c Museum Hotels has allowed the firm to develop a fluent understanding of the chain's aesthetic. Successful design solutions, such as strategically placing restrooms at a distance from restaurants to encourage guests to journey through gallery spaces, are often replicated in subsequent projects, demonstrating a consistent and evolving design language. This thoughtful design approach ensures that even a routine trip to the restroom becomes an artistic discovery, as observed in the 21c Museum Hotel Chicago. #HospitalityDesign #HotelInterior #ContemporaryArt #MuseumHotel #DeborahBerkePartners #ArchitecturalRenovation #ArtIntegration #ChicagoDesign #InteriorArchitecture

Tina Norden, the Interior Designer of the Year at The Brit List Awards 2021 and a partner at Conran and Partners, recently discussed her career and design philosophy. Norden's consistent presence and influential voice in the industry throughout the pandemic, addressing emerging trends, the impact on hospitality, inclusive design, and quality craftsmanship, earned her this prestigious recognition. Her dedication extended to mentoring junior team members and managing large-scale projects remotely, maintaining a positive and productive environment. Norden's passion for interior design and architecture stems from both her upbringing and personal interests. Her father, a landscape architect, and her formative years in Hamburg, Germany, a city known for its creativity, significantly shaped her career path. At 18, she moved to London, drawn by its vibrant music scene, and pursued higher education in architecture and design. A pivotal year-out placement at Conran and Partners solidified her belief that it was the ideal environment for her. During her time at the Royal College of Art (RCA), where she completed her Part II, Norden further developed her interest in interior architecture through a course that uniquely combined design and architecture. She continued her involvement with Conran and Partners throughout her studies and beyond, relishing the creative freedom and collaborating closely with Sir Terence Conran on notable projects. Her design approach emphasizes enduring style over fleeting fashion, a principle she attributes to Sir Terence Conran himself. This philosophy ensures that her projects are both aspirational and long-lasting. Over her career at Conran and Partners, Norden has revitalized numerous projects and led her team with an empathetic style. Her impressive portfolio includes the German Gymnasium, Skylon, South Place Hotel, Finsbury, and the Maximilian Hotel in Prague. More recently, she completed the new Park Hyatt hotel in Auckland, FEAST within Hong Kong’s EAST hotel, a new dining destination and members’ club at London’s Taj Hotel, and the Peninsula Boutique and Café in Hong Kong. Norden and her team also played a significant role in the HIX Event 2021, where they designed the WFHotel installation. This collaborative project explored how changing consumer attitudes towards working from home/hotel could reshape conventional lobby designs. Norden’s contribution focused on fostering community-focused interactions within these spaces, reflecting her commitment to human-centric design. This interview is part of an editorial series sponsored by GROHE, the Broadcasting Partner of The Brit List Awards 2021. #InteriorDesign #HotelDesign #Architecture #ConranAndPartners #TinaNorden #BritListAwards #HospitalityDesign #DesignTrends #LuxuryInteriors

Hotel Julie, a new nine-room hotel in Stratford, Ontario, showcases a unique approach to hospitality design, where each suite is conceived to function as a self-contained apartment. Property developers Jake Tayler and Paula McFarlane enlisted Autumn Hachey of You Should Stay Here and Jillian Smith-Moher of Twenty-Two Twelve to bring their vision to life. The collaborative design process, documented in a 10-episode CTV Life series, focused on creating distinct, bold personalities for each space, moving away from conventional, uniform hotel aesthetics. One innovative design solution is found in Flat 4, a smaller suite where a traditional door between the bedroom and lounge was not feasible. The designers incorporated an oversized keyhole-shaped opening, custom-made by Hemme, adorned with velvet curtains. This feature not only serves a functional purpose but also adds significant visual impact, paying homage to Stratford's rich theater history. In Suite 6, the designers challenged conventional material application by extending diamond checkerboard travertine and marble tile from the floor to the upper half of the walls in the kitchen, creating a wallpaper-like effect. To manage costs without compromising aesthetic, they specifically chose a cross-cut travertine, a less popular but equally effective style, which blended seamlessly with the burl wood furniture used elsewhere in the suite. Flat 3 presented a design challenge with its deep violet and dark chocolate color palette for a galley kitchen. To counteract the potential for a dark and dismal feel, a round peephole was carved into one of the walls, introducing an unexpected source of light and visual interest into the enclosed space. The design duo also masterfully integrated a striking burgundy and blue color combination in Flat 7, a scheme that designer Smith-Moher realized mirrored elements in her own home. The choice of Rosa Levanto stone, a more budget-friendly alternative to Calacatta Viola, was instrumental in achieving this luxurious look without overspending. Calacatta Viola was used sparingly for accents. Furniture selection emphasized customization and creative repurposing. Many pieces were reupholstered, such as a vintage sofa covered in House of Hackney’s Artemis Moss velvet, and bespoke wavy headboards were crafted by Kara Shuster from And Once We Were. A notable example of this ingenuity is the transformation of a CB2 outdoor dining table for Suite 4; its original top was replaced with a green marble slab, initially intended for a coffee table, which significantly elevated the table's appearance and the overall aesthetic of the suite. The article concludes by listing the specific Benjamin Moore paint colors used throughout Hotel Julie, offering readers practical inspiration from the hotel's diverse palette. #HotelDesign #InteriorDesign #KitchenDesign #PaintColors #HomeRenovation #CreativeSolutions #BoutiqueHotel #DesignInspiration

This article showcases 20 master suites and hotel guestrooms, highlighting their distinctive design elements and luxurious features. The selection includes both residential and hospitality projects, offering a diverse range of styles and functionalities. Each entry provides a brief description of the design intent and notable aspects, often mentioning the collaborating architects or designers and key furniture or decorative pieces. The featured designs span various aesthetic preferences, from the luxurious and spacious Tudor House Renovation by Hacin + Associates, characterized by its light-filled environment, to Tommy Hilfiger’s Miami Abode, which incorporates a silver foil ceiling and metallic geometric wall coverings by Astek for a bold statement. Tsao & McKown’s Indoor-Outdoor Master Suite emphasizes comfort and connection to nature through a custom bronze chimney and open-plan layout. Steve Leung Designers' Shenzhen Bay Apartment uses a warm beige and tan palette accented with gold leaf details to create a relaxing atmosphere. Other notable residential projects include a Luxe Manhattan Townhouse by Bohn Architecture & Design, featuring charcoal velvet walls and royal blue velvet furniture, and a Russian Penthouse Apartment by Kristina Uspenieva, where a custom painting behind the headboard adds a unique touch. The California Cottage by Bohlin Cywinski Jackson offers a nature-immersed shelter, while ICRAVE’s Private Pool House integrates white curtains and sheers with aluminum-framed sliding doors to blend indoor and outdoor spaces. B-Architecten’s 1930s Antwerp House presents a minimalist bedroom with whimsical sheer netting and vibrant orange furniture by Harry Bertoia. Hariri & Hariri’s Museum in the Sky showcases a sleek bedroom with designer furniture by Rodolfo Dordoni and art by Eric Zener. The article also presents several distinguished hotel guestrooms and suites. The Presidential Suite at 1 Hotel South Beach by Meyer Davis Studio features a Giancarlo Mattioli-designed table lamp and a polyester curtain to divide the sleeping and sitting areas. Block722 Architects+' Olea All Suite Hotel offers suites housed in cubic concrete buildings surrounding a large pool. John Pawson’s design for The Jaffa Hotel includes custom beds, rugs, and throws, alongside a photograph by Tal Shochat in the poolside suite. The Macau Roosevelt by Gulla Jónsdóttir showcases focal walls debossed with abstracted leaf patterns, drawing inspiration from ancient Chinese scrolls. Further examples include the Blue Lagoon Iceland by Basalt Architects and Design Group Italia, where a quartz composite bathtub in a guest room overlooks the iconic lagoon. Rottet Studio’s Hotel Alessandra features an acrylic tub in its standard guest rooms. Le Relais de Chambord by Wilmotte & Associés incorporates wallpaper patterned with a photograph of the Château de Chambord, blending historical context with modern design. ICRAVE’s Serafina Beach Hotel utilizes Romo wallcovering to create a faux-plaster effect on headboard walls. The Volcanic Island Resort by The System Lab includes a custom leather-upholstered wardrobe and luggage rack on polished-granite flooring in the Venus suite. Finally, the Hyatt Regency Amsterdam by Concrete and Jestico+Whiles features artwork inspired by the neighboring botanical garden above the headboard, connecting the interior to its local environment. Collectively, these projects demonstrate a wide array of innovative approaches to bedroom design, focusing on luxury, comfort, aesthetic appeal, and often, a connection to the surrounding environment or cultural context. The article serves as a curated collection of exemplary designs, offering inspiration and insight into contemporary master suite and hotel guestroom interiors. #MasterSuites #HotelGuestrooms #InteriorDesign #LuxuryBedrooms #ResidentialDesign #HospitalityDesign #BedroomDecor #ModernDesign #ArchitecturalDesign

The increasing pursuit of bathing pleasure has led hotels to create exceptional bathroom spaces, transforming them from mere amenities into luxurious sanctuaries. These new 'personal pleasure palaces' often feature lavish materials like marble, ranging in style from minimalist onsen-inspired designs to technologically advanced setups. Santa Clara 1728 in Lisbon, Portugal, a hotel with just six rooms, features bathrooms that blend modern design with ancient architecture. The walls are covered in hand-cut white tiles, complemented by pinewood flooring and shelving. A large freestanding tub and cylindrical wash basins, both carved from Portuguese Lioz limestone, are central features. Each bathroom also includes an adjacent wet-room with an industrial-sized shower overlooking the hotel's gardens. The Four Seasons in Kuwait City showcases bathrooms designed by Yabu Pushelberg. These spaces are characterized by grey and white striped marble, meticulously aligned, and screened from bedrooms by sliding doors. Australian luxury bath makers Apaiser provided standalone tubs, walk-in showers, and twin sinks. Bronze fixtures, in-mirror televisions, and concealed lighting add dramatic accents, while mosaic tiling or contemporary mashrabiya screens subtly interrupt the marble expanses. Elements of Byron in Byron Bay, Australia, situated amidst 50 acres of wilderness, offers cabins with private walled decks for outdoor bathing. The bathrooms reflect a Japanese simplicity-meets-Australian informality, with an onsen vibe achieved through wooden bath stools and ladder towel racks. Potted cheesecloth plants, rattan armchairs, and shell chandeliers nod to the area's bohemian aesthetic. Barcelona's Almanac hotel, designed by Jaime Beriestain Studio, features cinematic, contemporary art deco interiors. Its immaculate bathrooms include double sink vanities with individual mirrors, walk-in showers, and full-length tubs, all adorned with marble and glass. Muted metal fixtures, hovering between copper and gold, and bespoke bath products from Scottish-Catalan perfumer Jimmy Boyd soften the opulent feel. Hotel Bocage in Hua Hin, Thailand, is a concrete-centric design by Akaradej Pantisoontorn, with interiors by Duangrit Bunnag. The bathrooms are separated from the main room by floor-to-ceiling glass walls, offering dramatic views of the Gulf of Thailand. Sculptural sanitary ware by Antonio Lupi and bamboo charcoal-based toiletries from Charcoalogy complete the minimalist design. Le Mount Stephen in Montréal, Canada, a former private members' club, features resolutely contemporary rooms and marble-minimal bathrooms in its new annexe. These bathrooms are technologically advanced, boasting Japanese Toto toilets with heated seats, Cura chromatherapy showerheads in walk-in rain showers, and toiletries by Italy’s Comfort Zone. Practical additions like window-defoggers and heated floors are crucial for the Canadian climate. The Sofitel Darling Harbour in Sydney, Australia, occupies the top 35 floors of a skyscraper. Designed by Dreamtime Australia Design and the A+ Design Group, its sandstone bathrooms are spacious, with some featuring twin basins and twin walk-in rain showers. Freestanding tubs offer panoramic views of the bay and city skyline. Lanvin toiletries are provided. Verride Palácio Santa Catarina in Lisbon, Portugal, a converted 18th-century townhouse, features eclectic bathrooms designed by Teresa Nunes da Ponte. Some, like the Queen's Suite, have parquet floors, standalone tubs, and refurbished 18th-century Azulejo panels. Others are open-plan beige marble spaces with wet-room style overhead showers and trough-like sinks, often with a view. Aesop toiletries are a consistent offering. Amanbagh in Ajabgarh, India, designed by Ed Tuttle, offers sumptuous, light-filled bathrooms in a re-imagined campsite setting. The design incorporates Indian minimalist elements with warmth from wooden door panels, Mughal arches, and cappuccino-coloured stone flooring. A large, sunken green Udaipur marble bath is a central feature, ideal for relaxation after a day at the private pool or ayurvedic spa. 137 Pillars in Bangkok, Thailand, located in a skyscraper, has sparkling interiors by P49 Deesign. Its jazzy marble bathrooms include glass-walled rain-showers and deep, circular standalone tubs, perfect for watching TV or enjoying the expansive city views through floor-to-ceiling windows. #LuxuryHotel #BathroomDesign #InteriorDesign #HotelArchitecture #TravelAccommodation #SpaExperience #ModernDesign #SustainableDesign #GlobalHotels

Vincent Celano, the founder of New York-based Celano Design Studio Co., has established a reputation over three decades for creating transformative experiences in hospitality and architectural design. His work is characterized by lifestyle-driven concepts and a strong emphasis on authenticity and sustainability. Celano achieves this by integrating personalized approaches, thoughtful conceptualization, and collaboration with local artists and makers in his projects. His portfolio includes collaborations with major hospitality entities such as José Andrés Group, Hakkasan Group, and Marriott Hotels, as well as Resorts World Las Vegas. Recent notable projects highlight his diverse design capabilities. These include Catezza in Red Bank, NJ; La Concha Autograph Collection in San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Meximodo in Metuchen, NJ. One featured project, The Hiatus Clearwater Beach, Florida, is an 88-room boutique hotel developed in partnership with 3H Group. This Hilton property, located along Clearwater Beach, boasts ocean and bayside water views, a lobby bar and lounge, a restaurant, and a rooftop pool bar. The hotel's design incorporates teak wood planking and warm, clay-colored wallcoverings, while the reception area features jewel-box-like sculptural white-washed wood desks with brass accents. A layered textured glass chandelier, inspired by local shells, hangs in the lobby, complemented by coral-colored gradient glass screens that evoke the property's sunset views. A significant artistic element is a large hand-painted mural by local artist Derek Donnelly, depicting a woman and floral motif, which has become a community landmark and an iconic beacon for the hotel. Celano describes The Hiatus as embodying a relaxing, modern coastal experience, allowing guests to pause and rejuvenate. The color palette, dominated by greens, symbolizes harmony with nature and draws inspiration from coastal foliage, promoting feelings of growth, renewal, and vitality. Another project, ¡VIVA! in Las Vegas, Nevada, is a Mexican restaurant by celebrity chef Ray Garcia. Celano Design Studio Co. infused the vibrant culture of Oaxaca, Mexico's mezcal bars with a Las Vegas twist, resulting in an approachable, lively, and sophisticated 8,000-square-foot space. It features an indoor promenade patio, a main dining area, a feature bar, a 1,000-square-foot outdoor patio, and a private dining room. An infinity mirror at the entrance creates an interactive art installation, while a mural from the patio extends into the bar, serving as a backdrop for a tequila bottle display. The bar's central design element is a large wood and rattan ceiling feature, with 'petals' inspired by the blue agave plant, casting dramatic shadows. The dining room includes a large driftwood sculpture surrounded by four round banquettes with channel tufting. The outdoor patio maintains an eclectic and residential feel with a wood trellis, overgrown greenery, colorful upholstery, graphic patterns, and area rugs, making it suitable for elegant dinners or casual drinks. The Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails in Las Vegas, Nevada, offers an authentic old-school barbershop experience. The design, inspired by gilded barbers, emphasizes polished chrome, white porcelain, and crafted wood details. Dark hardwood floors, vintage tin ceilings, decorative chandeliers, and tufted furniture create a classic ambiance. An extensive wall of shelves and an 1885 vintage Brunswick bar are stocked with a vast collection of brown spirits. The lounge area features a custom-designed motorcycle lamp wall and a disappearing stage for live performances and karaoke, offering an unexpected twist to the traditional barbershop setting. Meximodo Cocina & Cocteles in Metuchen, NJ, is a modern Mexican restaurant that blends vibrant colors, rich textures, and crafted details with classic Mexican cooking. Large windows allow a full view of the lively interior, while colorful metal flowers and lush greenery define the patio dining area with residential-style seating and graphic patterns. The design incorporates colorful porcelain tiles, sculptural stepped wood banquettes, bright hues, and a rose tunnel featuring thousands of floating roses above the main dining room, along with a custom floral wallcovering and a hanging garden swing, to create a festive and unforgettable celebratory destination. #InteriorDesign #HospitalityDesign #RestaurantDesign #HotelDesign #LuxuryInteriors #EclecticStyle #TransformativeExperiences #AuthenticityInDesign #Sustainability

The article explores how to transform a personal bedroom into a luxurious retreat akin to a five-star hotel room, drawing insights from expert interior designers. It emphasizes that while many hours are spent asleep in a bedroom, creating a space that exudes comfort, relaxation, and luxury is crucial. The central theme revolves around emulating the instant feeling of relaxation experienced when checking into a high-end hotel. The first key tip focuses on establishing a "plump and plush bedscape." Designers recommend investing in high-quality bedding, a comfortable mattress, and full, fluffy pillows, often suggesting 100% duck or goose down for ultimate softness. Crisp white sheets with at least a 300 thread count, preferably sateen or percale, are recommended. The bed layering technique involves using large Euro square pillows for height, matching shams to the duvet or quilt, and adding a textured throw. The article also advises treating the bedroom like a hotel with daily bed-making to maintain a sense of luxury. The second tip highlights the importance of a "palette of hushed, soft, and soothing tones." Neutral colors such as white, beige, and soft grays are suggested to create a calm and serene atmosphere, mirroring luxury hotel aesthetics. These tones not only promote better sleep but also visually expand the space, contributing to an open and airy feel. While neutrals form the base, subtle accents of soft pale blues, gentle greens, or blush tones can be introduced to add character while maintaining a relaxing ambiance. "Mood lighting is key to ambiance" is the third piece of advice. Interior designers stress the need for varied lighting options, moving beyond basic overhead lights. The goal is to create a moody and soft environment using indirect lighting and dimmer switches. Combining ambient, task, and accent lighting is recommended, with a statement chandelier adding glamour and bedside lamps offering both functionality and style. The importance of natural light and appropriate bedroom window treatments is also noted. The fourth point, "Keep decor to thoughtful, pared-back amount," advocates for a minimalist approach. Instead of cluttering the space, designers suggest selecting a few high-quality, purposeful pieces. Sonya Haffey advises focusing on simple, high-quality finishes, while Regina Sturrock emphasizes uncluttered surfaces to maintain a clean, hotel-like environment. The article clarifies that this doesn't preclude personal touches, but each item should be deliberate and contribute to the overall mood without overwhelming the room. Ample bedroom storage is also encouraged to keep miscellaneous items out of sight. The fifth tip, "Consider your furniture arrangements carefully," stresses the importance of flow and symmetry. Enrique Vela suggests incorporating thoughtful design details like a banquette or cozy seating area, stylish bedside reading sconces, and convenient power outlets. Centering the bed with matching nightstands and lamps creates a balanced look. A small armchair or bench at the foot of the bed can add practicality and comfort. Thoughtfully placed console tables or dressers can provide additional storage and a designated getting-ready area. Finally, "Scent the space for ultimate relaxation" emphasizes the powerful impact of fragrance on mood. Interior designer Kathy Kuo highlights that investing in top-quality bedding and luxury home scents, such as candles or oil diffusers, can significantly enhance the hotel-like experience. The advice is to choose a scent that evokes joy and relaxation and make it a permanent fixture in the bedroom, further contributing to a truly restful environment. These collective tips aim to help individuals create a luxurious and relaxing sleep experience at home. #BedroomDesign #LuxuryInteriors #HotelStyle #InteriorDesignTips #HomeDecor #Relaxation #Bedding #ColorSchemes #LightingDesign

Hilton Hotels & Resorts, the flagship brand of Hilton's 22 brands with over 600 hotels across six continents, is continuously innovating to meet the evolving needs of travelers. This involves significant investments from Hilton Owners in refreshing and renovating properties with inspiring designs and innovative amenities. The brand's commitment to delivering exceptional stays is evident in recent global renovations that showcase captivating decor, award-winning dining experiences, and state-of-the-art meeting and event spaces. One such example is the Hilton Columbus Downtown in Ohio, which underwent a $265 million expansion completed in late 2022. This expansion added a new tower, making it the only hotel in Ohio with 1,000 guest rooms and over 75,000 square feet of meeting space. The new tower features a soothing color palette and a circular lobby that connects to public spaces and the Greater Columbus Convention Center. Guests can access enhanced accommodations, some with floor-to-ceiling windows offering city views, and enjoy five distinct food and beverage concepts, including Spark, FYR, and the rooftop bar Stories on High, all within walking distance of the Short North Arts and Arena Districts. TheWit Chicago, a Hilton Hotel, has also seen significant upgrades with newly appointed guest rooms and suites, a refreshed lobby, and enhanced amenities. The hotel’s design emphasizes creativity and art, featuring bright interiors with muted tones that highlight artwork, sculptures, and architectural light fixtures. Located in Chicago’s downtown Loop, it offers 310 guest rooms, a full-service spa, extensive meeting spaces, and dining options like the State and Lake restaurant and ROOF on theWit, a premier rooftop destination with panoramic city views and a retractable roof for year-round access. In London, the Hilton London Metropole, the largest Hilton hotel outside the U.S., completed a multi-million-pound renovation inspired by London's rich cityscape. This transformation enhanced its 1,100 guest rooms and 35 event spaces, including ballrooms and a hybrid meeting facility, along with a state-of-the-art fitness studio. The hotel introduced four new dining options: Tyburn Kitchen for sustainable, locally sourced dishes, Tyburn Market for grab-and-go meals, Tyburn Kitchen Bar for a casual family atmosphere, and Bow Bar, which offers an eclectic East London vibe with live DJs and signature cocktails. The Hilton Richmond Downtown in Virginia, housed in a historic former department store, underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation that preserved its unique character while modernizing its facilities. Additions include a new lobby bar and lounge, Gather & Hem, and a 1,400-square-foot hybrid meeting space, Ensemble, designed for collaboration. The hotel also features an authentic Italian restaurant, La Grotta, and the 1885 Café & Market, alongside an upgraded fitness center and an enhanced indoor pool area. Guest rooms and suites offer high ceilings, oversized windows, and renovated bathrooms with contemporary fixtures. The Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina in Florida is undergoing phased renovations that began in 2020. Guest rooms were initially transformed with a navy blue, white, and natural wood palette, which extends into the rejuvenated lobby. The hotel's lagoon-style pool and pool deck provide a serene oasis next to its 33-slip marina. A new two-story waterfront expansion has increased the event space to over 30,000 square feet, including the 4,875-square-foot Intracoastal Ballroom with water views. This expansion also includes Olive & Sea, an upscale rooftop restaurant, complementing existing dining options like poolside dining and Dockside Provisions. In Indonesia, the Hilton Bali Resort's newly renovated lobby offers an elevated arrival experience with new furnishings, lighting, and decorative elements. Completed in May 2023, the design incorporates local materials, colors, and textures to create a contemporary Balinese aesthetic that reflects the island’s beauty and supports the local community. Situated along Sawangan Beach, the resort features multiple pools, a sand lagoon, a waterslide, oceanfront event spaces, four dining options, and eight semi-open villa spas. The Hilton Los Angeles Culver City in California completed a $35-million renovation, transforming it into a modern and refined space for both work and leisure. All 375 guest rooms and bathrooms received updates, including new furnishings, lighting, and décor. The property’s 25,000 square feet of meeting space now boasts state-of-the-art technology. The overhaul also included the exterior façade, landscaping, public spaces, swimming pool, and fitness center, with the addition of Peloton bikes and "5 Feet to Fitness with Fitness Zones Rooms." The hotel introduced West & Co., a new destination for craft cocktails and coastal fare, featuring a restaurant, bar, and grab-and-go market. Finally, the Hilton Vienna Danube Waterfront in Austria is completing a phased renovation by the end of 2023, encompassing guest rooms, conference facilities, the executive lounge, terrace, wellness area, restaurant, and bar. Drawing inspiration from the building's history and Viennese charm, the redesign by THDP features a fresh blue waterfront design in guest rooms, with premium rooms and suites offering a modern rustic industrial aesthetic and new dining bar and terrace options for a relaxed social atmosphere. These renovations across multiple global locations highlight Hilton Hotels & Resorts' continuous effort to enhance guest experiences through thoughtful design, innovative amenities, and localized influences. #HotelRenovations #HiltonHotels #HotelDesign #HospitalityInnovation #LuxuryTravel #InteriorDesign #GuestExperience #DiningExperiences #MeetingSpaces

The article discusses common mistakes in designing guest bedrooms and provides solutions to ensure guests have a comfortable and welcoming experience. It emphasizes that designing a guest room differs significantly from decorating a personal bedroom, requiring a focus on guest needs and preferences. One major mistake highlighted is neglecting ambient lighting. Relying solely on harsh overhead lighting creates an unwelcoming atmosphere. Instead, the article advises incorporating soft lamps or sconces that offer adjustable brightness, allowing guests to relax or read comfortably. A touch lamp with multiple settings, for instance, provides customization that can make the space feel more personalized for the guest. Additionally, some lamps include USB ports, a thoughtful feature for charging devices. Another critical error is prioritizing style over function. While aesthetics are important, practical elements like adequate nightstand space and storage are essential. Guests need room for personal items, a glass of water, or a book. Designers recommend considering what one would appreciate in their own bedroom and replicating those functional aspects in the guest space. Multi-functional furniture, such as sleeper sofas or benches with hidden storage, is also suggested to maximize space, especially in smaller rooms, and provide versatile utility for both guests and regular use. The article also addresses the mistake of disregarding cohesiveness in design. A guest room benefits from a relatively neutral and streamlined aesthetic, avoiding a jumbled or confused appearance caused by mixing too many disparate design elements. Simple, minimalist decor ideas are recommended to create a timeless appeal that caters to a wider range of tastes, ensuring all guests feel comfortable. Forgetting the psychological impact of spaces on mood is another identified oversight. The guest bedroom is where visitors begin and end their day, influencing their overall experience. Creating a soothing environment with natural hues, textures, and wood accents can evoke a sense of calm. Embracing elements of indoor-outdoor living through color palettes, such as greens and browns, or incorporating calming blue tones in soft furnishings, contributes to a tranquil atmosphere. Finally, the article underscores the importance of soft furnishings, like rugs, bedding, and pillows. These elements are crucial for increasing coziness and creating a relaxing retreat, counteracting the harshness of an empty room. High-quality bedding, for example, can make guests feel like they are staying in a luxurious hotel. The most significant, and easily preventable, mistake is not personally trialing the guest space. Staying in the room allows hosts to identify and resolve any forgotten details or potential issues before guests arrive, ensuring a truly comfortable and thoughtful experience.

Denver's urban landscape is witnessing a surge in stylish boutique hotels, moving beyond traditional commercial aesthetics towards interiors that exude a residential charm. These new establishments, including The Maven, Moxy, The Source, Born, Jacquard, and Ramble, distinguish themselves with fashion-forward finishes, luxurious furnishings, and extensive collections of fine art. Among these, The Maven Hotel at Dairy Block stands out as a particularly inspiring example, showcasing a blend of industrial materials with vibrant colors, bold patterns, and sculptural elements. The Dairy Block, where The Maven is situated, represents a comprehensive redevelopment that harmonizes historical structures with new constructions. This micro-neighborhood integrates retail spaces, dining establishments, a six-story office tower, and the 172-room Maven Hotel. The architectural and design vision for The Maven was a collaborative effort between Brooklyn-based Crème/Jun Aizaki Architecture and Design and Denver-based Johnson Nathan Strohe (JNS). They employed a palette of natural industrial materials such as stone, raw rolled steel, beetle-kill wood, and concrete, which are thoughtfully contrasted with bright colors, distinctive patterns, and artistic furnishings. The hotel's commitment to art is further evidenced by its collection of over 400 original art pieces curated by Denver's NINE dot ARTS, featuring works by local Colorado artists, from large-scale sculptures like Andrew Ramiro Tirado's suspended lobby piece to Robert Weidmann's intricate stenciled floors. Nicole Nathan, a partner and design architect at JNS, shares actionable decorating tips inspired by The Maven's unique design. One such tip involves replacing traditional rugs with tile in high-traffic areas like entryways. The Maven's suites feature cork planks laid in a chevron pattern, offering durability and a distinct visual appeal. Nathan suggests this pattern can be replicated with various modular materials, including paint, emphasizing the importance of extending the design only a third of the way into a room to maintain balance. For those looking to incorporate this, Arizona Tile's Africa series or Chevron Mesh are recommended. Another significant trend highlighted is the resurgence of wallpaper, modernized through advanced printing technologies and innovative finishes. The Maven's Diamond Suite showcases a custom, mural-style wallcovering made from a historical ballpark photograph printed on vinyl, demonstrating how large-format photographic murals can create a unique feature wall. Nathan advises using such dramatic wallcoverings on uninterrupted walls and suggests companies like TRI-KES and MDC for custom prints, or Trove’s “Fuoco” pattern for ready-made options. The hotel also redefines the concept of a gallery wall. Instead of a loosely arranged collection, The Maven features "Dark Matter Gathering," a cohesive collage of 300 framed black-and-white photographs by Travis Hetman, unified by consistent framing and color. This approach transforms multiple pieces into a single, impactful art installation. Alternatively, the article proposes skipping frames altogether for large-scale art, as seen in the Innovator Suite's "Mod Maude" mural by Karen Fisher, which is a direct installation on the wall. This method is cost-effective for large pieces and creates an authentic, site-specific work, particularly effective in open-plan areas with suitable lighting. Adding greenery is addressed with the idea of a hanging garden. In Kachina Southwestern Grill, the hotel's restaurant, custom suspended shelves hold succulents, drawing attention to the tall ceilings while preserving an open line of sight. This solution is ideal for spaces lacking floor or counter space, such as above a breakfast bar or seating area. DIY enthusiasts can create similar industrial-style shelving, or custom pieces can be commissioned. Furthermore, the article suggests swapping traditional seating for a swing chair, noting its presence in The Maven's bunk rooms and elevator lobbies. These chairs add a playful, sculptural element and offer a unique experience. Kettal’s Maia Egg Swing is cited as a stylish option. Finally, incorporating elements that nod to the past, like the stained-glass panels in the Poka Lola Social Club, can be modernized with geometric patterns and varying light values to create a fresh, contemporary feel, especially when used in unexpected places like bathroom windows for visual privacy and aesthetic appeal. #HotelDesign #InteriorDecorating #DesignTips #ModernInteriors #ArtInstallations #WallpaperTrends #HomeDecor #BoutiqueHotel

Nido Architecture co-founders Chiara Patrassi and Alexandra Bernaudin collaborated with hotel owner and director Carine Tissot and six contemporary artists to design the interiors of the Drawing Hotel in Paris. Tissot, also co-founder of the annual Drawing Now Art Fair, provided the artists with creative freedom to decorate the hotel's hallways. Despite initial unfamiliarity with contemporary drawing, Patrassi noted the artists' enthusiasm and willingness to work with new mediums. The hotel features five distinct floors, each showcasing a unique visual theme. Swedish painter Thomas Broomé utilized perspective grayscale lettering for wallpaper depicting an ideal library on the top floor. Watercolorist Françoise Pétrovitch designed the fourth floor with forest green walls, sophisticated paintings in simple frames, and variegated tufted wool carpeting. Draftsman Clément Bagot's abstract colorful splashes are embedded behind glass panes in all-black walls on the third floor. Muralist Abdelkader Benchamma hand-drew trees and plants on white walls for the second floor, and graffiti duo Lek & Sowat created a psychedelic environment spanning walls, ceiling, and floor on the first level. These vibrant corridors contrast with the calm, relaxed atmosphere of the 48 guest rooms, where artist-designed printed-fabric headboards serve as a transitional element. The hotel was an unexpected venture for Tissot, who discovered the building while seeking a location for a permanent gallery. Patrassi and Bernaudin joined the project in 2016, during the initial construction phase of the ground floor. Faced with the typical Parisian challenge of limited space, the architects made crucial alterations, such as replacing frosted-glass shower modules with transparent ones and substituting minuscule closets with glass-and-steel wardrobes to create separate toilet areas. The overarching design principle was _chaleureux_, meaning welcoming, prominently featured through tinted oak paneling and custom wood furnishings throughout the hotel. This included the lounge's leather sofas, reception desk, bar, and various tables. The ground level, spanning 1,900 square feet, posed a significant challenge, needing to accommodate the entrance, reception, retail space, and lounge. The reception area features an angular design with low shelves displaying books and objects for sale. A partition of oak rods, serving as a library, defines the adjoining lobby, which includes a bold black-and-white rug, a Neri & Hu loveseat, and a sculptural Philippe Nigro chair. Beyond this, the cocktail lounge overlooks a courtyard with red walls, a tribute to Luis Barragán. Stairs lead to the basement Drawing Lab, a contemporary gallery that was the genesis of the hotel concept. The exterior of the hotel more closely resembles a bookstore or art shop than a traditional hotel, reflecting the goal of achieving a gallery atmosphere rather than a 'deco' look. The roof terrace offers guests views of the surrounding Parisian mansard rooftops, furnished seasonally with tables, chairs, and umbrellas. The stairs leading to the terrace are currently painted white, with the possibility of future artistic installations. The project team included Magali Amblard for Nido Architecture, Maurice Azoulay as Architect of Record, Symbiosis for landscaping, Douet Design for lighting, Cap Structures for structural engineering, Innovation Fluides for MEP, and Ramos Catarino for woodwork. #NidoArchitecture #DrawingHotel #ParisHotels #HotelDesign #ContemporaryArt #InteriorDesign #ArtisticCollaboration #HospitalityDesign #CustomFurnishings